Skoda Yeti Price in India, Review, Pics, Specs & Mileage | CarDekho Showing information of Skoda Yeti Style 4X4 - Diesel variant Yeti highlights December 10, 2015: The Czech automaker, Skoda has renamed the 'Elegance' variants of Rapid and Octavia sedans as 'Style' and next up is the company’s premium crossover SUV, the Skoda Yeti. The SUV now comes in two trim levels, which include the Style 4X4 and the Style 4X2 variants. The 4X2 variant comes with a front-wheel drive type and is priced at Rs. 20.3 lacs, whereas the 4X4, more powerful variants costs Rs. 22 lacs (Ex-showroom New Delhi). The renaming, however, has not resulted in the introduction of any mechanical updates and the Czech automaker’s SUV still incorporates the 2-litre TDI unit, which produces 108bhp in the Style 4X2 variants and has been tweaked to belt-out 138bhp in the Style 4X4 variants.

Skoda Yeti price list (Variants) Variant Advertisement Skoda Yeti review Skoda has tasted success and delighted its customers with its Yeti SUV series in several global markets. They have now achieved another juncture with the production figure of half a million (5,00,000) of this utility vehicle. Earlier, it was available in an "Elegance" variant, but now, this has been replaced by the "Style" trim. This robust vehicle is placed against the likes of Mahindra XUV500, Mahindra Ssangyong Rexton, and Toyota Fortuner. The design and overall appearance is not that great, yet, there are a few elements that catch attention. Especially, the "butterfly" like radiator grille with chrome plating, and LED daytime running lights remain the main attraction at front. The sides have alloy wheels with tubeless tyres, roof rails and body moldings with chrome inserts. Meanwhile, its rear looks a bit boxy and includes attributes like a large windscreen with wiper, LED tail lamps and bumper with protective guards beneath it. On the other hand, the interior design looks classy and gives a pleasant feel.

A good color scheme is used for the cabin, while a few aspects get metallic coating as well. The cockpit has a contemporary theme and includes two individual seats and some sophisticated equipments. It has a tilt steering wheel mounted with multi-functional switches and leather cover as well. A touchscreen infotainment system equipped to its center console, which comes with a few connectivity options. Skoda Yeti is bestowed with many comfort aspects like cruise control, removable rear seats, power operated windows, climatronic air conditioning unit, and so on. Aside from these, it also includes various security features that keeps its passengers safe throughout the journey. The list comprises of traction control system, engine immobilizer, tyre pressure monitoring system, park distance control, dual tone warning horn and many others. When talked about technical specifications, it comes in both two wheel and four wheel drive options. Both of its variants are equipped with a 2.0-litre diesel engine that gives out different power outputs. Also, these are offered with 5-speed and six speed manual transmission gear box options to select from. This vehicle is available with a standard warranty of two years or unlimited kilometers, whichever comes first. Exteriors The Yeti series has a muscular body structure and a new design philosophy.

There are visible character lines all over, which brings it an attractive look. In the rear end, the tail gate design is somewhat unique and it is embossed with the company's insignia. A bright tail light cluster surrounds it and includes LED lamps as well as turn indicators. The bumper is fitted with a pair of reflectors and has silver painted guard underneath it. Also, there is a wide windscreen with a wiper and a high mount stop lamp as well. To describe its front fascia, there is a large radiator grille in butterfly like design. It has black vertical slats and a thick chrome surround. The bonnet comes decorated with a few expressive lines and has the company's logo engraved at its tip. On either sides of the grille, there are bi-xenon headlamps integrated along with stylish LED daytime running lights. The windscreen is pretty large and fitted with a couple of automatic wipers that have rain sensors as well. Then, it has a well sculpted bumper that includes a black protective cladding and a silver coated nudge guard. Also, it is fitted with a pair of dynamic fog lamps that have cornering function.

Coming to the side profile, it gets a set of alloy wheels, which are quite good in terms of their design. The B pillars and door handles are in body color, whereas the A, C and D pillars are painted in black. It has stylish outside rear view mirrors that are integrated with side turn indicators. Besides these, the chrome accentuated moldings and roof rails completes the look of its side profile. Exterior Measurements: This vehicle is quite generous in terms of dimensions. It is 4222mm long and has a width of 1793mm, which excludes outside mirrors. The total height is of 1691mm and the minimum ground clearance comes to 180mm. It is designed with a wheelbase of 2578mm. Interiors High quality fabric materials are used in the cabin that is quite spacious and accommodates five people with great ease. A dual tone color scheme is seen inside, which is further complimented by chrome accents. A special mention requires to its cockpit that is eye catching in modernistic theme. The dashboard is in two colors and includes a center fascia featuring an advanced touchscreen infotainment system.

There are also other advanced equipments that it houses like a three spoke steering wheel, instrument cluster, rectangular shaped air vents in the center and a few others. Moreover, the neat wooden inlays along with a lot of chrome inserts amplifies the overall appearance. The steering wheel has a leather cover and mounted with multi functional switches. Besides these, the chrome inserts on instrument cluster dials, gear shift selector, door handles, and AC duct sliders further adds to its style. The stylish instrument cluster has two round shaped analog meters along with a multi-information display. It includes vehicle's speed information, tachometer, fuel gauge and several other notification lamps. Coming to seating, these are well cushioned and wrapped with fine leather upholstery. These are integrated with headrests, which gives more convenience. The driver's seat has 12-way electrical adjustment facility and memory setting for three positions. The rear seat meanwhile, can be folded to increase space for more luggage. Apart from these, it has two foldable roof handles, 12V power sockets, storage compartment under front passenger seat, cup holders in center console, front seat back pockets, coat hooks, ticket holder and several other utility based aspects.

Interior Comfort: This is available with a number of comfort features, which makes it one of the best choices for a comfortable driving experience. It is bestowed with attributes like electrically adjustable external mirrors with memory setting, rear seat center armrest, power windows with one touch operation, lumbar support for front seats, reading lamps and many more. There is a dual zone climatronic automatic air conditioning system with odor filter and electronic regulation of temperature inside. The adjustable air vents on rear center console and under front seats aids in spreading air in the entire cabin. For entertainment, it has a music system that supports Bluetooth audio streaming and auxiliary input options. The steering wheel is height and length adjustable, while there is also rear view camera with display in LED touchscreen display. The cruise control system assists in providing a fatigue free driving experience. Then, there is a multi function screen that displays information of service interval, average consumption, clock, outside temperature, average speed and distance traveled. The KESSY (keyless entry, start and exit system) is another interesting factor that includes an engine start/stop button to enhance their convenience.

This SUV also has remote control operation for door, illuminated front glove box with cooling, removable rear parcel shelf, drink holders, speakers, textile floor mats, removable rear seats, lights-on acoustic signal and many other such features that increase the level of comfort. Interior Measurements: It is extremely spacious from the inside and ensures ample leg, head as well as shoulder space to all its five occupants. The boot compartment of 416 litres is rather good and this can be extended further up to 1485 litres by folding the rear bench seat. However, by removing the rear seat, the total capacity can be increased up to 1665 litres. On the other hand, it also has a large fuel tank that can hold about 55 or 60 litres of diesel depending on the variants. Acceleration & Pick-Up The variant with a 6-speed manual transmission gearbox can break the 100 Kmph speed mark in mere 9.9 seconds and can go up to a maximum speed of 190 Kmph. While the one with a 5-speed manual transmission gearbox achieves a top speed of about 177 Kmph.

This accelerates from 0 to 100 Kmph speed mark in approximately 11.6 seconds. Engine and Performance This model comes in two trims and both these are equipped with the same 2.0-litre TDI diesel engine that has a liquid cooling system and high pressure direct injection technology. It has a total displacement capacity of 1968cc and is based on double overhead camshaft valve configuration. This oil burner has 4 in-line cylinders and 16-valves. The 4x2 version is paired with a 5-speed manual transmission gearbox that delivers the torque output to the front wheels. It can generate power of 108.5bhp at 4200rpm and yields 250Nm torque output. In the other trim with a 6-speed manual transmission gearbox, this mill can produce 138.03bhp maximum power in combination with torque of 320Nm. Mileage This vehicle comes fitted with a powerful 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine, which is incorporated with a high pressure direct injection system. Its fuel efficiency varies based on the drive options.

The maximum mileage in its 4x2 version is of around 17.72 Kmpl. Whereas in the 4x4 option, it gives about 17.67 Kmpl on the highways and nearly 14.3 Kmpl within the city. Power of Skoda Yeti The diesel motor in both the variants is the same, but it is only the power output that varies. It is incorporated with a turbocharger featuring self-aligning blades and liquid cooling system that further improves its performance. In the 4x2 variant, the maximum power is 108.5bhp at 4200rpm and torque is 250Nm between 1500 and 2500rpm. Meanwhile, in the 4x4 trim, it develops 138.03bhp power along with torque of 320Nm in the range of 1750 to 2500rpm. Stereo & Accessories Its occupants can listen to their favorite tracks through an advanced audio unit with touch controls on a high resolution 6.5-inch LCD TFT display screen. This system can also be operated through switches that are mounted on the steering wheel.

It supports AUX-In socket, Bluetooth connectivity for audio streaming along with interface for GSM telephone preparation. The firm has also offered it with a six-disc changer, eight speakers and a few connectivity options for SD card and multimedia device interface with USB. If the passengers are looking for more options, then they can select a few more accessories of their choice. Some of these include connecting cable for MDI, rubber boot mat, netting system for luggage compartment, mobile holder, mud flaps and other such elements. You can now buy Skoda Yeti accessories online. Great discounts available. Braking & Handling This model series is loaded with a hydraulic dual-diagonal circuit vacuum assisted braking system. This comprises of robust disc brakes on all its four wheels. It is further assisted by anti lock braking system including electronic brake force distribution and hydraulic brake assist system. This vehicle also is also integrated with traction control programs including anti-slip regulation, electronic differential lock, and direct steering recommendation. In terms of suspension, its front axle gets a McPherson strut with lower triangular links and torsion stabilizer. While the rear one has a multi-element system featuring one longitudinal and three transverse links.

Handling is best ensured by a direct rack and pinion based electro mechanic power steering system that simplifies maneuverability in all road conditions. Safety & Security This is certainly one of the finest vehicles in this segment that is loaded with numerous protective attributes. It includes dual front, side and curtain airbags that prevents the possibility of injuries to a large extent in the event of any accident. There is an engine immobilizer with floating code and there is a security lock for central infotainment system. The two ISOFIX child seat mounting for rear seats is of utmost importance when kids are on-board. Then, there are front and rear parktronic sensors, three point height adjustable seat belts with pretensioners at front, driver seat belt warning light, door open indicator, side door protective strips and acoustic warning signal for overrun speed. In addition to all these, it comes with more advanced elements like ABS with EBD, anti slip regulation, electronic stability program, tyre pressure monitoring, hill descent control, and electronic differential lock as well that adds to the security quotient. Wheels The variant of two wheel drive type is equipped with a set of 16-inch 'Dolomite' alloy wheels, while the other trim gets 'Forest' rims of same size.

High performance tubeless radial tyres of size 215/60 R16 are adorned to these wheels, which provides excellent grip on roads. Besides these, a 16-inch steel spare wheel is also on the offer with 195/60 R16 sized tubeless tyres. Pros Road test New Skoda Yeti: Expert Review The SUV segment has bailed out many a manufacturer out of the doldrums thanks to the Indian consumers affinity towards these large hunks of metal. However while most of them have tasted success, there have been a few who despite being capable and better than the competition in most aspects haven't really mana... read more Skoda Yeti 4x4 Long Term Test Report 1. We have been driving around the Skoda Yeti 4x4 which happens to our long term test car currently. After having driven for more than 800kms covering over a month we are now in a position to get a first hand ownership report.

read more Nearby dealers Skoda Yeti review Skoda Yeti review Kyle Fortune , Car reviewer, Telegraph Cars 1 October 2016 • 8:05am Skoda Yeti If you want a practical family car that looks like a rugged 4x4, the Skoda Yeti should be on your list It might be named after an elusive creature, but the Yeti is anything but hard to spot, having won over a lot of buyers with its rugged utility, spacious interior and tough, 4x4 looks. Its most obvious rival is the Nissan Qashqai , but the Yeti is also available for the same sort of money as more conventional hatchbacks, such as the Ford Focus . Space 9/10 Spacious and versatile Like the Himalayan habitat of its hairy namesake, the Yeti is high and vast, if a bit more hospitable. Head- and legroom are excellent throughout, while the rear seats can be slid forward or tumbled up against the front seats should you need to extend the large boot. It’s even possible to remove the rear seats altogether, although they are heavy to lift out.

Access to the boot is good, thanks to a large tailgate, and there are some useful storage spaces in the front of the car, including a decent-sized glovebox, wide door bins and a between-the-seats cubby (as long as you avoid the cheapest, S-spec). Comfort 7/10 Comfortable seats, but it’s not as quiet as the best Access is easy, thanks to tall, square doors, plus the seats are supportive and there’s lots of adjustment for the driver. Comfort is slightly undermined by suspension that sends the odd knock into the car, plus the Yeti lets in more wind and road noise than a Nissan Qashqai. However, all of the petrol engines are smooth and quiet. The trade-off for choosing a diesel is some extra vibration, but this isn’t overly intrusive. Book a free Skoda Yeti home test drive Dashboard layout 8/10 Emphasis on functionality rather than flair The functionality of Skodas has long been a key part of their appeal. Which is why it’s no surprise the Yeti has a dashboard that, while lacking a little in visual flair, works with a clarity and ease that’s difficult to fault.

The instrumentation is clear, the ventilation good and all the controls positioned sensibly. Entertainment and information functions are all easy to operate, while the optional satellite-navigation system is also relatively fuss-free after a bit of familiarisation. The material quality is good throughout, as is the build; the Yeti’s interior might not delight, but it works well. Easy to drive 9/10 Excellent view out and stress-free to drive The Yeti’s high-set driving position and large windows give you an excellent all-round view and make it easy to judge the extremities of the car from the driver’s seat. All of the engines feel strong enough, too, although the petrols require more gearchanges than the diesels. An easy gearshift helps ensure that the Yeti is a stress-free everyday drive, while an automatic gearbox is available as an option on every engine except the 1.6-litre diesel. Fun to drive 9/10 Enjoyable whatever the engine size The Yeti might compete in a marketplace where the emphasis is on practicality, with driver appeal way down the list of priorities, but it’s a rare treat from behind the wheel.

The suspension is firm enough to stop it leaning over dramatically in bends, plus the steering is precise and reassuringly weighted. The Yeti’s fine driving characteristics mean fun can be had with any of the engines, even the weakest, 1.2-litre petrol. Upgrade to a 1.8-litre petrol and you also get four-wheel drive, but while this turns the Yeti into a surprisingly capable mud-machine, it adds little to the on-road driving experience. The only other Yetis that are available with four-wheel drive are the 2.0-litre diesels. Reliability 9/10 Skoda has an excellent customer satisfaction record This is clearly a Yeti strength because it finished second out of 116 cars in the 2013 JD Power customer satisfaction survey. Skoda also gives you the reassurance of a three-year, 60,000-mile warranty, although this is average rather than exceptional; Toyota and Hyundai both offer five years of cover, and Kia seven years.

Fuel economy 6/10 Even the best is bettered by newer rivals The most frugal Yeti is the 1.6-litre diesel, which returns an official average of 61.4mpg. This figure sounds impressive enough in isolation, but the equivalent Nissan Qashqai manages 74.3mpg, while the best conventional hatchbacks can do more than 80mpg. Economy drops dramatically if you choose one of the four-wheel-drive Yetis, and petrol Yetis also fall well short of their best rivals when it comes to efficiency. Affordability 7/10 Prices are competitive and resale values strong Skoda might once have been considered a ‘budget’ brand, but it’s now firmly in the mainstream.The Yeti reflects this, costing the same sort of money as rivals. Demand for the Yeti has always been high, which means it will be worth a lot more than a conventional hatchback, such as the Ford Focus, when you come to sell it. And Skoda offers a three-year fixed-price service plan that helps keep running costs down. Safety 7/10 Good standard safety equipment Car safety specialists Euro NCAP awarded the Yeti their maximum five-star rating.

And the Yeti actually scored better than the newer Nissan Qashqai for adult occupant protection. However, the Qashqai was rated higher for child occupant and pedestrian protection. Standard equipment includes seven airbags, while two extra airbags that protect those in the rear in the event of a side impact are available as an option. A driver drowsiness detection system is also available. Standard spec 8/10 SE cars give you everything you need The Yeti is offered in standard form and as a slightly more rugged looking Outdoor model. Plus there are four specification levels: S, SE, Elegance and Laurin & Klement, although the last of these is only available if you choose the Outdoor. S-spec cars comes with alloy wheels, air conditioning and a Bluetooth hands-free phone connection, but it’s worth upgrading to SE if you can afford it, because this brings cruise control, parking sensors, a better stereo and a dual-zone climate control system that lets the driver and front passenger select different temperatures. Elegance brings leather trim, heated seats and more technology, while the range-topping Laurin & Klement model gets even more luxuries, including satellite-navigation and a digital radio.

Our favourite version 1.6 TDI 105 Greenline II SE Outdoor, list price £19,715 Options you should add: Fixed price service plan (£529) and rear side airbags (£295) The verdict 8/10 Introduced in 2009 and updated for 2014, the Skoda Yeti remains an excellent family car. It’s a much more practical choice than a conventional family hatchback, but a Nissan Qashqai is quieter and more efficient. Follow The Telegraph Russian Car Manufacturers :: Russian Companies :: Business & Law :: Russia-InfoCentre Russian Car Manufacturers October 3, 2007 18:49 Decades ago, Soviet citizens could only dream about a car, regarded as a luxury rather than a means of transportation. The price tag was too high and the waiting list stretched for years. Here are some notes about the key Russian car manufacturers vying for Russian consumers. Avtovaz The name of Avtovaz is firstly associated with Lada model, probably the most frequently met Russian car model on the roads.

However, Avtovaz is the leading Russian passenger car manufacturer and now produces a wide range of models quite popular in the country (Niva, Oka, Lada). Avtovaz dates back to 1966, when the construction works on a new car-making plant started. The Soviet Union and Italian Fiat concluded a cooperation agreement on conjoint development of an automobile design and car-making plant. The term of the contract was 8 years. The first plant Volzhsky was built in Togliatti, modern Samara Region. In April 1970 first six cars VAZ 2101 were produced. By the end of the year the plant had released 350 cars per day, which was some kind of a record. Since then VAZ cars have been repeatedly awarded and received the reputation of the most public cars for the Soviet people. Lada Kalina Nowadays Avtovaz maintains its role as the key Russian passanger car manufacturer and cooperates with General Motors and the Renault-Nissan concern. The French-Japanese group plans to set up a joint venture with the Russian Technologies corporation controlling the plant.

According to the plan, the foreign producers will own a 67.13 percent and a liability to invest 23 billion roubles in the production. The joint venture will hold 74.5 percent of Avtovaz. Avtovaz model line: Lada Kalina, Lada Priora, Lada Samara, Chevrolet Niva and others. Gaz Group The Gaz Group is the biggest car manufacturer in Russia. The company was established in 2005 after the restructuring of RusPromAvto's assets. Soon after its launch in 1929, the Gorkovsky (Gaz) automobile works signed an agreement with the American Ford Motors on technical help and cooperation to produce Ford-A class passenger cars in the Soviet Union. The role of the works in the days of the WWII was huge: over 9 000 self-propelled vehicles, 12 000 tanks, 24 000 mortar launchers, over 30 000 missiles for legendary Katyusha missile launchers.

Pobeda After the war the works initiated production of a new truck GAZ 51, and then a new passenger car GAZ M 20 Pobeda (Victory) – this model was recognized abroad and became very popular. Other well-known cars are Volga and Chaika – in 1958 at the international exhibition in Brussels they won Grand Prix. In the 1960s the works renewed its line of trucks. In 1981, it produced its ten-million automobile. In the 2000s, it controlled the market of shuttle minibuses, with its Gazelle make, which has had serious problems with safety. Its medium-quality Siber model had to be put off the production line in a very competitive environment, and later the Nizhny Novgorod plant was forced to give up on its own production and focus on effective assembly of foreign makes. On December 12, 2012 the plant launched the full-cycle production of Skoda Yeti and promised to launch the assembly of VW Jetta and Skoda Octavia early next year.

GAZ's Nizhny Novgorod plant will also produce 30,000 units of the Chevrolet Aveo per year for GM, starting from 2013. Kamaz KAMAZ Open Joint Stock Company was established in 1990 as a descendant of industrial association KAMAZ that had been founded in 1969. KAMAZ Inc. is the largest Russian vehicle manufacturer, which insures transport safety of the country. KAMAZ Inc. is a large vehicle building company. The united production complex of KAMAZ Inc. consists of 13 large special-purpose plants developing, producing, assembling vehicles and components and also marketing end products. The KAMAZ Group of companies consists of 96 enterprises including NefAZ OJSC (Neftekamsk city) and Avtopritsep-KAMAZ OJSC (Stavropol city). Share of KAMAZ Inc. is 51% in each of these two companies. The first truck was assembled in February 1976. Since then KAMAZ Inc. has been playing a significant role in the world automobile industry.

It is among the top ten manufacturers of heavy-duty vehicles and is the eighth in the world on production volumes of diesel engines. Thus, within 29 years there has been assembled over 1,7 million heavy-duty trucks and 2,3 million engines. KAMAZ Inc. manufactures a wide range of heavy-duty dump trucks (more than 30 models and about 400 modifications trucks with a right-side steering wheel), buses, trailers, castings, forgings, tools and many others. KAMAZ is the major vehicle supplier for the Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation, RAO GAZPROM, LUKOIL, SUEK, TNK. In 1931 the plant was launched again after reconstruction and in October of the same year it was named after Stalin - ZIS. ZIS 101, the first Soviet seven-seater limousine, was assembled at the plant. ZIS 101’s design was based on the natural sample of American passenger car Buick. After the WWII the plant manufactured mostly new truck models and buses. In 1956 Ivan Alekseevich Likhachov died, and the plant was named after him.

After the successful round-Earth flight of Yuri Gagarin, the space industry developed quickly in the Soviet Union. ZIL was forgotten and produced rescue-emergency vehicles (PEU-1) targeted at rescuing and evacuation operations of space devices and cosmonauts. On September 23, 1992 PA ZIL was privatized as the first one in the industry and the one of the first among the largest enterprises in Russia, and it was transformed into Open Joint Stock Moscow Company "Plant named after I. Lihachov" (AMO ZIL) keeping the trademark "ZIL". Today ZIL manufactures 3 to 8 ton capacity trucks along with vans, limousines and buses Yo-mobil The Yo-mobil is a hybrid car that will be produced by Yo-auto, a Russian high-tech company that is a joint venture between SKD truck maker Yarovit and the Onexim investment group, previously controlled by billionaire Prokhorov, who was the main sponsor of the project.

Producers say it will be able to run both on gasoline and natural gas, with a maximum speed specifically limited for 75 miles per hour (120 km/h), and an estimated fuel economy of 67 miles per gallon (30 kilometers per liter). Originally scheduled for 2012, production at a plant in St. Petersburg has been delayed till 2015. Marussia Motors This brand is more well-known abroad than in Russia. Set up in 2007 it is led by TV celebrity and musician Nikolay Fomenko. Currently, its list features B1 and B2 sports cars, which boast all the bells and whistles, a 0-60 time of 3.8 seconds, and a 2.8 Turbo 420 horsepower engine. In 2010, it acquired a major stake in Virgin Racing F1 team, and renamed it Marussia F1 team in 2012. In 2013, there were media reports that Marussia Motors was chosen as the contractor to produce a new presidential limo and escort vehicles.

Text by Olga Pletneva (updated by Mikhail Vesely) Sources: Skoda Yeti Review | CarAdvice Skoda Yeti Review New Cars Editor 28 Oct 2011 The name Skoda Yeti probably means very little to most Australians in the market for a new compact SUV. The quirky soft-roader from the Czech Republic has been thrown in the deep end of one of the country’s most competitive markets against infinitely better-established vehicles like the Toyota RAV4 , Subaru Forester and Nissan X-Trail . But Skoda Australia has high hopes for its latest active family machine, which is based on the same underpinnings as the rugged Skoda Octavia Scout 4×4. Head of Skoda Australia, Matthew Wiesner, says the Yeti is Skoda’s “most important model from a value perspective” and “definitely” the brand’s volume product for 2012. After spending close to 10 hours in the Yeti taking on the bitumen and riverbeds between Alice Springs and the delightfully named Boggy Hole, it’s clear Skoda’s versatile little crossover has what it takes to put an Abominable Snowman-sized footprint on the compact SUV segment.

The Skoda Yeti will initially be available in two very distinct trim levels: the urban-focused, front-wheel drive, petrol-powered 77TSI; and the off-road-ready, all-wheel drive, diesel-powered 103TDI. At $26,290 for the six-speed manual and $28,590 for the seven speed dual-clutch automatic DSG (before on-roads), the Yeti 77TSI is priced to take on the likes of the Nissan Dualis , Kia Sportage and Hyundai ix35 . The 77TSI is well equipped for a base model. It features 16-inch alloy wheels, black roof rails, interior leather package (steering wheel, gearstick, handbrake), height-adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support, manual air conditioner, cruise control, multi-function trip computer, and an eight-speaker audio system with single CD player, auxiliary input, and Bluetooth phone connectivity and audio streaming. The standard safety package includes seven airbags and electronic stability control with ABS, EBD, traction control and Hill Hold Control.

Demanding a $9400 premium, the 103TDI is available with the choice of a six-speed manual ($35,690) or six-speed DSG ($38,990), and is poised to go head-to-head with its sister car, the Volkswagen Tiguan, as well as the Subaru Forester and Hyundai ix35. Outside, the top-spec model adds 17-inch alloys, front fog lights, silver roof rails and underbody protection (and trust me, it works). Cabin comfort and convenience features include dual-zone climate control, auto lights and wipers, height-adjustable passenger seat with lumbar support, additional storage spaces and adjustable boot hooks, and an upgraded audio system with six-stack CD player, SD memory card slot and 6.5-inch colour touchscreen display. Unfortunately, a USB port is only available as an optional extra. Skoda Australia also plans to launch the Yeti 118TSI all-wheel drive petrol model in the first half of 2012 to fill the gap with a low-$30,000 price tag.

Both current models can be optioned with the Park Assist 2 system, which, for $1390, helps guide you into and out of parallel and reverse 90-degree parking spaces. Other major options include bi-xenon headlights ($1490) and panoramic glass roof ($1990), while the 103TDI can be exclusively optioned with leather upholstery ($2830) and voice-controlled satellite navigation with 30GB hard drive ($2890). Skoda didn’t have any of the Yeti 77TSI models at the launch, so we can’t give you drive impressions of this model just yet. Given that it’s powered by a proven drivetrain from the Volkswagen Polo and Volkswagen Golf however, we’re confident it will be smooth and satisfying for everyday use. The 1.2-litre turbocharged 77TSI produces 77kW of power (5000rpm) and 175Nm of torque (1550-4100rpm).

It drinks premium unleaded at a rate of 6.6 litres/100km (7.0 litres/100km for the DSG) and accelerates from 0-100km/h in 11.8 seconds (12.0 seconds DSG). It may not be a speed demon, but the Yeti 77TSI’s fuel economy makes it one of the most efficient vehicles in its class. Then there’s the 103TDI, which despite weighing an extra 185-190kg, is around 10 per cent more fuel efficient than the petrol. The 103kW/320Nm 2.0-litre diesel powerplant (again familiar from a number of other Volkswagen Group vehicles) sips just 6.2 litres/100km on the combined cycle, and 6.7 litres/100km with the six-speed DSG. Acceleration is sharper at 9.9 and 10.2 seconds respectively, while the 103TDI also has an additional 800kg braked towing capacity (2000kg vs 1200kg).

The first leg of our drive in the Yeti comprised 120km on a highway, throughout which the 103TDI 4×4 was confident, composed and quiet. It predominantly drives like a small car. The only time the dynamics drop off is through corners, where its height leads to a bit of body roll. Steering and pedal inputs are well weighted and responsive, and it absorbs the bumps without drama. The view from the driver’s seat is commanding – and can be made more so by pumping the standard height-adjustable seat. Despite the height, it’s not an effort to get into the Yeti – you still walk in, rather than climb up into it. With glass all around the visibility is excellent, especially to the rear thanks to the Yeti’s squared-off design. Perhaps the highlight of the Yeti is its ‘VarioFlex’ rear seating system. Each seat can be folded down individually, flipped forwards to rest against the front seatbacks, or removed completely to turn the Yeti into a quasi-van. Luggage capacity ranges from 310 litres to 1665 litres depending on the position of the rear seats.

If you’re just riding with two in the back, you can fold down the middle seat to create an armrest with drink holders, or you can remove it altogether and slide the two outer rear seats inwards to give both passengers more shoulder room. Finally, the two outer seats also slide forwards to increase the surface area of the boot floor. No car in its class comes close to this kind of interior versatility. Back-seat passengers sit higher than those in the front, giving them the ideal vantage point to take in the view. Even so, there’s acres of headroom and enough legroom to ensure you’ll fit no matter how tall you are. The interior practicality extends to the myriad stowage bins, cup holders and hooks. One of the few disappointments is the centre cup holders, which are slightly too skinny to fit standard 600ml water bottles, and might be a stretch for regular coffee cups (so best go for the macchiato instead). The dashboard is finished with soft-touch plastic, although there are still quite a few hard surfaces.

I have always found Skoda interiors a little plasticy and dated, and while the Yeti isn’t quite as refined as the Tiguan, it has a classier feel than other models in Skoda’s line-up. Before you jump in the cabin, however, you’re probably going to look at the outside. Certainly, the Yeti is one of the most distinctive designs in the compact SUV class, if not the entire market. Crawling through the red desert in central Australia, the boxy dimensions, rugged black plastic bumpers and skirting panels and the gaping wheel arches look right at home. Those city-based shoppers after a more conservative design might find the Yeti a little too in your face. Despite this, Skoda Australia says it believes the Yeti will appeal to singles, young families and women, and has launched the range with a diverse colour pallet to ensure it can be personalised to suit your taste. There are 13 paint colours (including three blues, two reds, a bright green and orange) and four roof colours (black, white, silver and beige), taking the total number of exterior paint combinations to 61.

Metallic/pearl effect paints cost $490 and contrast roofs add $390. The urban side of it is one thing, but Boggy Hole is about as far from urban as it gets in Australia. Other than the $290 off-road technology package – which adds Hill Start Assist, Hill Descent Assist, and sharpens the electronics of the ABS, traction control and electronic differential lock – our cars were completely standard. That meant low profile 17-inch wheels and the standard 180mm ground clearance. Short front and rear overhangs make it a handy hill climber when you run out of flat stuff. The Skoda Yeti was never intended to take on the terrain we threw at it. Rocks, river crossings and deep, soft sand. Plenty of us bottomed out (including yours truly) in sand that was simply too deep for the car’s ground clearance. The support team’s Volkswagen Amaroks (and when they too failed, the support team’s support team’s Toyota LandCruiser) got a decent workout. Incredibly however, some of the little Yetis made it through unflustered from start to finish, proving driving skill was the key limiting factor.

At the end of the first day, the casualty list included just one flat tyre, a couple of numberplates lost in the creek, and some twisted plastic underbody protectors. The Skoda Yeti is certainly not the kind of car you would take on a serious four-wheel drive adventure holiday, but it’s impressive to know there’s plenty more to the 103TDI than the soft-roader tag suggests. The Yeti is perfectly suited to the person who wants a unique, versatile, efficient and dynamically strong compact SUV at a competitive price. Skoda Yeti manufacturer’s list prices (excluding government and dealer charges): 77TSI FWD six-speed manual – $26,290 77TSI FWD seven-speed DSG – $28,590 103TDI AWD six-speed manual – $35,690 103TDI AWD six-speed DSG – $38,990 Skoda: from laughing stock to top dog - Telegraph Skoda Skoda: from laughing stock to top dog Skodas dominate the Driver Power list of the best cars to own. But what are the secrets of this once laughable manufacturer’s success?

The Skoda Yeti finished top of the 2013 Driver Power survey Comments Did you hear the one about the Skoda ? It, er, well, was really good. Better than that, in fact, it was the best car to own of any in the UK. And that’s not according to some half-baked survey by a PR company after attention. Rather, it’s the findings of the Driver Power survey , a poll of 46,000 car owners carried out by Auto Express magazine, which this year has teamed up with the Telegraph. From its findings Auto Express has published a list of the 100 best cars to own, based on a number of factors including reliability, running costs, performance, ride quality, practicality and ease of driving. Topping that chart is the Skoda Yeti , while in second place is the Skoda Superb and in sixth the Octavia. Pop that into your Audi-branded pipe and smoke it.

The question isn’t whether Skoda deserves its place at the top of the pile, or even how it got there - anybody even mildly educated in the way of the modern automobile will know that Skoda has come a very long way from the risible reputation it earned during the era of the Russian occupation of Czechoslovakia. Rather, what we should be asking is how the manufacturer positioned near the bottom of the VW Group hierarchy is putting all of its sister companies - including VW itself - in the shade. Related Articles Driven: Skoda Superb Estate Greenline 1.6 TDI 05 Nov 2012 Certainly value for money comes into it, for despite being well built, reliable and with a helpful dealer network, Skodas remain very keenly priced for both retail and fleet buyers. Click on the company’s website today, for example, and you can get a 25 per cent discount off a Fabia supermini, just like that. But its success within the Group itself goes deeper than that. To see how, you only need compare it with sister company Seat, which despite being moderately successful in the UK is struggling in Europe. Why? Quite simple really: product.

Where Seat has been stuck with a fixed range of VW Group derived models, Skoda has been given leeway to develop more interesting and practical cars. The Yeti crossover SUV is a prime example, offering a spacious, fun to drive and affordable package that you can’t get elsewhere from the VW Group. There’s also the Roomster, which focuses on maximising the practicality of a small car, and the Superb, which by being longer and cheaper than a VW Passat offers the kind of legroom usually enjoyed by Bentley owners but for a fraction of the price. It’s not just cost-conscious consumers who are impressed either. I was chatting to a fellow motoring journalist recently who declared he’d found the best car he’d driven in years. It wasn’t the new BMW 3-series or Porsche Cayman, but a Superb Greenline Estate. That’s from somebody who drives different cars week in, week out, and he’s far from alone in our industry in rating the Superb so highly. There will still be some, of course, who refuse to accept that a Skoda can really be more satisfying to own than a VW or Ford, let alone a BMW or Mercedes. However, on this occasion the majority voted otherwise.

That’s not to say that we can’t still enjoy remembering the bad old days. Most have a good story about dodgy Skoda built quality, terrible performance and hopeless reliability. Mine dates back to my childhood, when my aunt owned a rusting blue 130. It was forever breaking down, but never more memorably than the day it suffered handbrake failure while performing a hillstart on Dartmoor. And by handbrake failure, I mean the handbrake literally came clean off in her hand. She obviously didn’t know her own strength - now that really is driver power.

Question: Which car manufacturer produces the Yeti?
Answer: SKODA